Birds

Cedar Waxwing on a branch
Cedar Waxwing on a branch

Tim Ervin

Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens is a tremendous site for birding in Washington D.C. Birding is one of many great reasons to visit Anacostia Park and the Aquatic Gardens. Over 250 different species of birds have been spotted at Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens! Our park frequently has the highest recorded species count in the district. As the only urban wetland in the nation's capital, the park manages habitat for ground nesting, aquatic, and woodland birds.

Typically, in Washington D.C. the spring migration is between March-June. The Fall Migration is from August-November. Those that do not migrate are called resident birds. The birds that travel to and from our park throughout the year are called migratory birds.

Examples of Kenilworth Residents: Red-Winged Blackbirds, Belted Kingfisher, and some populations of Canada Geese.

Examples of Kenilworth Visitors: Great Egret, Green Heron, and American Woodcock.

 
The Great White Egret
The Great White Egret

A migratory bird

Red-winged Blackbird
Red-winged Blackbird

With it's distinct red strip

Mallard Duck
Mallard Duck

Always in pairs

Great Blue Heron
Great Blue Heron

Year round loner

Northern Mockingbird
Northern Mockingbird

With a recognizable tail

Canadian Goose
Canadian Goose

Hundreds together

 
Blue Heron
The Great Blue Heron, one of our year round residents

NPS photo

Birding at Kenilworth

Over 250 different species of birds have been spotted at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens and Kenilworth Park! Birding has always been a good reason to come to Anacostia Park and the Aquatic Gardens. The park manages habitat for ground nesting, aquatic, and woodland birds.Join us on Tuesday mornings from 8:30-10:00am for a weekly bird walk. Bring comfortable shoes, water, and binoculars if you have them (sunscreen when applicable). Seasoned and new birders are all welcome!

 

For an updated list of bird sightings, go to https://www.mbr-pwrc.usgs.gov/Infocenter/Nps/park.htm

Last updated: August 19, 2024

Park footer

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

1550 Anacostia Ave. NE
Washington, DC 20019

Phone:

771 208-1571

Contact Us